Bingo is a fun, family-oriented game which continues to grow in popularity throughout the world. It is a game of chance, and randomly-drawn numbers are matched to the same numbers appearing on a bingo card. The winner is the first player to have the drawn numbers form a specified pattern on their card (lines can be made horizontally, vertically, or diagonally). When this happens, the player yells out, “Bingo!” to inform others of their win.

In many countries, Bingo is used as a form of legalized gambling. In the United States, numerous bingo halls are available to play at, and states like Oklahoma often locate these facilities next to more traditional casinos.

If you happen to find yourself in Oklahoma, you should certainly visit one of their many bingo halls and play a few games. The action is fast-paced, and all sorts of great prizes are up for grabs (including money and cars at some of the larger facilities). In fact, I’ve complied a short list of some of the better places to play in the state.

Okemah, Oklahoma – Located in Central Oklahoma, Okemah is the county seat of Okfuskee County. It is the birthplace of folk music legend Woody Guthrie (if you visit in July, be sure to check out the festival dedicated to his memory). In the Indian language, the word Okemah means “things up high.” And if you’re not in a hurry, you might also want to check out Lake Okemah, which is one of the most well-managed lakes in the state (and since Oklahoma is “America’s Frontier Lake State,” that’s really saying something).

There are three major centers for bingo in the city. The first is Okemah Bingo and Casino, located at 1100 South Woody Guthrie Street. Second, there’s The Okemah Gaming Center, which offers a variety of slot machines as well as bingo. It can be found just off of Interstate 40. Speaking of Interstate 40, that’s where the third facility can also be found. It’s called the Thlopthlocco Tribal Town Casino, and it’s just off of Exit 227.

Concho, Oklahoma – A rural unincorporated community, Concho is in Canadian County and can be found just north of the Concho Indian School. While there’s not much to see in the small community of Concho, there’s some excellent bingo and gambling to be found at the Lucky Star Casino, located on 7777 North Highway 81.

Turpin, Oklahoma – Another small community which offers excellent bingo opportunities, Turpin is located in Beaver County. While there’s not much in the way of shopping or dining, fans of history may be interested in the Turpin Grain Elevator which is included in the National Register of Historic Places.

Bingo is available at State Line Bingo, which is located on Highway 83 South. Games are available every Tuesday through Saturday starting at 5:30 pm.

Haileyville, Oklahoma – Located in Pittsburg County, Haileyville has a population of around 900. Be careful when traveling to the bingo hall, however, as the town’s main source of income comes from speeding fines.

In actuality, this community doesn’t have an actual bingo hall. Instead, games are held at the Haileyville Fire Department, which is located at 110 Main Street. This may sound a bit odd, but it’s perfect for those who want to make new friends and sample of slice of small-town life.

While the places I’ve listed here may sound small and unimportant, that shouldn’t stop you from giving them a try. The people of Oklahoma are warm and generous, and the residents of these smaller communities are especially hospitable. Besides, there’s often less competition, so that could possibly add up to more wins (and more prizes) for you.By: Shane Rivers

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